Reviews

Astound Broadband offers affordable internet plans with speeds ranging from 300 Mbps to 1,500 Mbps, starting at around $20 a month. With no data caps in most areas, most plans are priced under $50 for the first year. Customers can lock in a low introductory rate for one to three years, starting at around $20 a month. Astound Broadband often offers extra perks when signing up, such as an Amazon gift card, a month of free service, and 50% off installation.

Astound Pricing

Astound is a fast cable internet provider with competitive starting rates and no contracts, termination fees, or data caps. It offers limited-time offers and deals for customers. Although the price increase can be significant, it is not considered “trap pricing” as Astound doesn’t tie you into a term agreement. This allows you to bail or negotiate before paying larger bills. However, it’s important to be aware of lurking price increases and hidden fees before signing up. To protect yourself against pricing traps from ISPs, read our guide on how to protect yourself.

Customers see a steep price increase after one to two years with Astound. The exact length of time varies. It all depends on the promotion which you sign up with. Astound doesn’t seem to have precise price hike amounts, but customer feedback indicates it’s more than just a few dollars a month.

To make the most of Astound Broadband’s internet offers, customers can sign up online, sign up for autopay and e-billing, or look at current deals that include an Amazon gift card, one month of free internet, or 50% off installation depending on eligibility. For DIY or professional installation, customers can rent a modem and one of two Wi-Fi routers from Astound, bringing their total monthly equipment costs between $17 and $27. The Whole Home Wi-Fi router option is suitable for most people, supporting fast internet speeds up to 1,500 Mbps.

For power internet users, the Nighthawk Pro gaming router can be an option, supporting speeds up to 5,400 Mbps. While this may not meet the typical household needs, it is an option for tech heads and gamers.

Astound Plans

Plans:	Monthly Price	Speeds	Service Details
Astound Internet First	$10-$20	Up To 150Mbps download	$16 monthly network fee, no equipment fees or contracts
Astound 300	$20	300Mbps download	$16 monthly network fee, no equipment fees or contracts
Astound 600	$35	600Mbps download	$16 monthly network fee, no equipment fees, or contracts
Astound 1000	$45	1,000Mbps download	$16 monthly network fee, no equipment fees, or contracts
Astound 1500	$55	1,500Mbps download	$16 monthly network fee, no equipment fees, or contracts

Astound offers slightly different plans and pricing across all its markets, so download speeds and prices might differ depending on your location.

In most places, Astound offers four main speed tiers and an affordable internet program. All plans are free of long-term contracts and come with unlimited data. Similar to other cable ISPs, Astound hikes its prices after one to two years. Depending on your chosen plan, your price will jump anywhere between $8 and $20 a month in the second or third year. While Astound won’t charge you for equipment, you can expect an additional $16.93 network maintenance fee on your monthly bill.

Funding for the Affordable Connectivity Program ended in May 2024, leading Astound to reintroduce its affordable program for low-income households. The Internet First plan features two-speed tiers: 50 megabits per second for $10 per month and 150Mbps for $20 with no contracts or data caps and equipment included. You might be eligible for this program if you participate in the Supplement Nutritional Assistance Program, Medicaid, SSI or other federal programs.

Award-winning customer service

Astound has great customer service. This company won fifth place in PCMag’s Reader’s Choice award in 2022 (2), and before it consolidated them under the Astound brand, Grande, Wave, RCN, and WOW! were all recognized in 2021 (3) and we can see why Astound is a fan favorite. You don’t have to sign a contract if you don’t want to, your plan comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee, and if your technician is late for your appointment, Astound will pay you $20 for the inconvenience. Put it all together, and you get a top-notch customer experience.

Web.com is an online company that provides a website builder, along with website hosting, domain name registration, and various digital marketing services. It offers turn-key solutions to small-sized businesses and entrepreneurs.

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Originally Published: January 9, 2024 Blockchain Magazine

In the rapidly evolving landscape of technology, blockchain has emerged as a groundbreaking innovation with the potential to reshape industries and redefine the way we interact with digital information. As blockchain continues to gain prominence, the role of blockchain engineers becomes increasingly crucial.

Read more: Top 10 Important Programming Languages To Learn For Blockchain Engineers

Central to the toolkit of any blockchain engineer are programming languages, serving as the foundation for developing the decentralized applications and smart contracts that power the blockchain. In this comprehensive exploration, we delve into the profound reasons why learning programming languages is essential for aspiring and seasoned blockchain engineers alike.

1. Solidity: The Language of Smart Contracts:

• Overview: Solidity stands as the go-to programming language for developing smart contracts on the Ethereum blockchain. It is a statically-typed language designed for creating decentralized applications (DApps) and self-executing contracts.
• Use Cases: Solidity is particularly prominent for creating decentralized finance (DeFi) applications, non-fungible tokens (NFTs), and various other blockchain-based projects within the Ethereum ecosystem.
• Key Features: It supports inheritance, libraries, and complex user-defined types. Its syntax is similar to JavaScript, making it accessible to developers with web development experience.

2. Chaincode (GoLang): Powering Hyperledger Fabric:

• Overview: Hyperledger Fabric, a permissioned blockchain framework, relies on Chaincode for smart contract functionality. Chaincode is written in GoLang, a statically-typed language known for its simplicity and efficiency.
• Use Cases: Chaincode is widely used in enterprise blockchain applications, providing a framework for creating private and permissioned blockchains for various industries, including supply chain, finance, and healthcare.
• Key Features: GoLang’s concise syntax and efficient performance make it suitable for developing complex smart contracts in enterprise-grade blockchain solutions.

3. Rust: Security and Performance in the Polkadot Ecosystem:

• Overview: Rust has gained traction in the blockchain space, especially in projects like Polkadot. Known for its focus on safety and performance, Rust is chosen for building robust and secure blockchain infrastructures.
• Use Cases: Rust is prominently used in the Polkadot ecosystem, contributing to the development of parachains and ensuring the security of the relay chain.
• Key Features: Rust’s ownership system and memory safety features make it a preferred choice for building decentralized applications where security and performance are paramount.

4. C++: Building the Core of Blockchain Protocols:

• Overview: C++ has long been a stalwart in blockchain development, frequently chosen for implementing the core protocols of various blockchain networks. Its efficiency and versatility make it suitable for both public and private blockchains.
• Use Cases: C++ is utilized in the development of core blockchain protocols, such as Bitcoin and Litecoin, as well as in creating custom blockchain solutions for diverse applications.
• Key Features: C++’s high performance and low-level capabilities make it suitable for developing the foundational components of blockchain networks, including consensus algorithms and networking protocols.

5. JavaScript (Node.js): The Web Developer’s Entry into Blockchain:

• Overview: JavaScript, especially when used with Node.js, has become a popular choice for blockchain development, particularly in creating decentralized applications that run on the server-side.
• Use Cases: JavaScript is widely employed in the development of front-end interfaces for decentralized applications, as well as in the creation of blockchain solutions that require server-side scripting.
• Key Features: JavaScript’s asynchronous nature and ease of integration with web technologies make it an accessible language for developers entering the blockchain space from a web development background.

6. Python: Versatility in Blockchain Development:

• Overview: Python, known for its simplicity and readability, has found its way into blockchain development. It is employed for various purposes, from building smart contracts to creating tools and frameworks for blockchain projects.
• Use Cases: Python is used in the development of smart contracts on platforms like Ethereum, as well as in building blockchain-related tools, libraries, and frameworks.
• Key Features: Python’s readability and extensive libraries make it a versatile choice for blockchain engineers, enabling them to streamline development processes and quickly prototype solutions.

7. Java: Enterprise-Grade Blockchain Solutions:

• Overview: Java, with its platform independence and robust ecosystem, is often chosen for developing enterprise-grade blockchain solutions. It is utilized in various blockchain frameworks and platforms.
• Use Cases: Java is prevalent in enterprise blockchain solutions, contributing to the development of applications that require high scalability, security, and integration with existing enterprise systems.
• Key Features: Java’s object-oriented nature, cross-platform compatibility, and enterprise support make it suitable for building complex and scalable blockchain applications.

8. C#: Leveraging Microsoft’s Blockchain Frameworks:

• Overview: C# (C-Sharp) is a programming language developed by Microsoft and has found relevance in the blockchain space, especially in projects utilizing Microsoft’s blockchain frameworks like Stratis.
• Use Cases: C# is used in the development of blockchain applications on platforms like Stratis, contributing to the creation of private blockchains and enterprise solutions.
• Key Features: C#’s integration with Microsoft technologies and its object-oriented design make it a valuable asset for developers working on blockchain projects within the Microsoft ecosystem.

9. Vyper: Simplified Smart Contracts on Ethereum:

• Overview: Vyper is an alternative to Solidity, designed to be a more secure and readable language for writing smart contracts on the Ethereum blockchain.
• Use Cases: Vyper is employed by developers who prioritize simplicity and security in smart contract development on Ethereum, particularly in cases where readability and security are paramount.
• Key Features: Vyper’s syntax is deliberately simplified compared to Solidity, making it easier for developers to audit and understand smart contracts, reducing the risk of vulnerabilities.

10. LLL (Low-Level Lisp-like Language): Advanced Smart Contract Development:

• Overview: LLL is a low-level language that allows developers to write smart contracts at a more granular level, providing advanced control over the Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM).
• Use Cases: LLL is used by developers seeking fine-grained control over the execution of smart contracts on the Ethereum blockchain, particularly in scenarios where optimization is critical.
• Key Features: LLL provides low-level access to the Ethereum Virtual Machine, offering advanced developers the ability to optimize and fine-tune smart contracts for specific use cases.

Are Blockchain Engineers in Demand?

Blockchain technology has emerged as a transformative force with applications across various industries, creating a surge in demand for skilled professionals to navigate and innovate within this evolving landscape. The question of whether blockchain engineers are in demand can be explored through various dimensions:

1. Industry Adoption:
   • Blockchain adoption has expanded beyond cryptocurrency, reaching sectors such as finance, healthcare, supply chain, and more. As industries recognize the potential of decentralized and secure systems, the demand for blockchain engineers has grown.
2. Blockchain Use Cases:
   • The diversity of blockchain use cases, including smart contracts, decentralized finance (DeFi), non-fungible tokens (NFTs), and supply chain tracking, contributes to the demand for engineers with specialized knowledge in these areas.
3. Skills Gap:
   • The rapid evolution of blockchain technology has resulted in a skills gap, as the demand for blockchain engineers outpaces the availability of qualified professionals. Companies seek individuals with expertise in blockchain development, cryptography, and distributed ledger technologies.
4. Enterprise Blockchain Projects:
   • Large enterprises are increasingly integrating blockchain into their operations. As companies implement blockchain solutions to enhance efficiency, transparency, and security, the demand for engineers capable of developing and maintaining these systems is on the rise.
5. Startups and Innovation:
   • The startup ecosystem is thriving with companies focused on blockchain innovation. Startups working on novel blockchain applications, protocols, and solutions are actively seeking talented engineers to drive their projects forward.
6. Decentralized Finance (DeFi):
   • The explosive growth of DeFi platforms has created a significant demand for blockchain engineers well-versed in smart contract development, blockchain security, and protocol design.
7. Blockchain Platforms:
   • Various blockchain platforms, including Ethereum, Binance Smart Chain, and Polkadot, have gained prominence. Engineers with expertise in developing decentralized applications (DApps) on these platforms are in high demand.
8. Government and Regulatory Initiatives:
   • Governments and regulatory bodies are exploring blockchain applications for enhanced transparency and security. Initiatives in areas like identity management and public services contribute to the demand for blockchain engineers.
9. Integration with Emerging Technologies:
   • Blockchain is increasingly integrated with other emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, internet of things (IoT), and edge computing. Professionals with cross-disciplinary skills are sought after to create holistic solutions.
10. Remote Work Opportunities:
    • The nature of blockchain development often allows for remote work. This flexibility broadens the talent pool as companies can tap into a global network of skilled engineers, further emphasizing the demand for remote blockchain talent.

Conclusion:

As we draw the curtains on our exploration into the realm of blockchain engineering, it becomes abundantly clear that the choice of programming languages plays a pivotal role in shaping the trajectory of success in this dynamic field. The landscape of blockchain is as diverse as the technology itself, and the languages one chooses to master can be likened to selecting the right tools for a craftsman.

In this journey, we have traversed foundational languages like Solidity, recognizing its dominance in the development of smart contracts on the Ethereum blockchain. The importance of C++ has been underscored, serving as a stalwart in the creation of blockchain infrastructures and contributing significantly to the open-source community.

Python has emerged as a versatile companion, finding its place in various aspects of blockchain development, from scripting to building decentralized applications (DApps). The elegance and simplicity of Python have made it an attractive choice for those seeking a rapid and efficient development process.

As we bid adieu to our exploration, it’s crucial to emphasize that the blockchain space is ever-evolving. New languages may emerge, and existing ones might undergo transformations to better suit the dynamic demands of the industry. Therefore, the journey of a blockchain engineer is one of continuous learning and adaptation.

To all aspiring blockchain engineers, the path ahead is both challenging and exhilarating. Equip yourself with a solid foundation in the languages we’ve uncovered, but remain agile and open to embracing new technologies. The blockchain universe rewards those who innovate and persevere.

As you set forth into the world of blockchain engineering, armed with the knowledge of programming languages as your compass, remember that your journey is uniquely yours. May your code be resilient, your algorithms be efficient, and your innovations reshape the future of decentralized technologies.

In today’s world, high-speed Internet is more important than ever. With so many different options available, it can be difficult to decide which broadband provider is the best for you. But Verizon Fios has come to be known as the gold standard for speed and reliability.

Verizon Fios is hard to beat for high speed internet service and generous data allowances. Verizon isn’t widely available, but it’s best suited for those who just want lightning-fast internet at a reasonable price. Easy, fast, reliable broadband! But, if you’re interested in a bundle deal it’s important to know all your options.

Online Exclusive! Order online today and we’ll waive the $99 setup fee

What Is Verizon Fios?

Fios is an acronym for Verizon’s fiber-optic internet service, which features three different speed tiers — 200, 400 and Gigabit Connection. 

Verizon Fios is one of the top broadband internet providers in the United States, but is not widely available. Verizon Fios offers great speeds, a reliable network, and a variety of features that make it a great choice for anyone looking for high-speed internet. Plus, with its great speeds, you’ll never have problems streaming HD content and gaming online.

To sign up for Verizon Fios, you just need to click the link online, give your information, and they will set up an appointment. The installation procedure is simple and straightforward, and it only takes a few hours to complete. Once Verizon Fios is installed, you’ll be able to enjoy the benefits of bundled internet and TV right away.

Verizon offers home internet via DSL for much of its footprint, primarily for those in the Northeast who are outside its Fios network. Verizon LTE Home Internet service is an option in 200 markets, beyond the 65 markets where Verizon 5G Home service is currently available. Basically our advice is visit the website, enter your zip code, and they will tell you what is available in your area.

Advantages

• All Verizon Fios plans are 100% fiber, with fast download and upload speeds
• No data caps on any plans
• No term agreements necessary on any plans
• A wide variety of streaming services: You can enjoy all of your favorite streaming services with Verizon Fios thanks to its quick speeds.
• A reliable network: Verizon Fios has a reputation as a highly reliable network
• Reasonable fees: The fees associated with Verizon Fios are regarded as reasonable

Disadvantages

• Fiber is available in only select areas
• Fios and 5G area are very reasonable, but LTE and DSL options are pricey

Verizon Fios Home Internet Prices And Plans

Verizon Fios offers service with lightening fast speeds, and great customer service with no annual contract. There are three basic Internet Service plans at three different speeds. While the offer reasonable rates they have fewer options.

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The contract terms for Verizon Fios are relatively short, which means that you can limit your service if you decide it doesn’t meet your needs. And when it comes to fees, Verizon Fios doesn’t charge too much for its services; the fees may be lower than what many other broadband providers charge, depending on the package you choose and the service area you live in. All in all, Verizon Fios is definitely worth considering if you’re looking for a smoother broadband experience.

What Are the Benefits of Using Verizon Fios?

If you’re looking for a high-speed broadband provider that offers a great variety of features and benefits, then Verizon Fios may be the perfect solution for you. With Verizon Fios, you’ll enjoy top-of-the-line speeds, a reliable network, and a number of compatibility options that make it a great choice for anyone. Here are just some of the benefits that you’ll receive when you sign up for Verizon Fios:

Verizon Fios is one of the best broadband providers out there. With its reliable network and great speeds, it’s perfect for anyone looking for high-speed internet. With Verizon Fios, you can expect to have no trouble staying connected and enjoying the latest updates and content online. The coverage area for Verizon Fios is extensive, so you’re likely able to access services easily. And, if you do encounter any connectivity issues, don’t worry – Verizon has representatives available to help you troubleshoot the issue.

Is Verizon Fios Right For Me?

Verizon is second to none with it’s Fiber Internet. And, now as it’s been rated so high in customer service there seems to be no stopping Verizon. Although there is limited availability for Fios that means almost nothing to the consumers – unless they move around a lot. Visit their website, see if it’s available, and signup. If not see if Verizon LTE is available for you. If you’d like DSL I’d advise price shopping, as that’s not where Verizon shines. Verizon’s 5G home internet is also awesome, and worth taking a look at until it’s available in your area. Until then, Verizon Fios one of the premier options on the market.

You can get huge savings on AT&T Fiber Internet when you bundle. Order online to save!

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Investing in Bitcoin is hot but how exactly does a beginner get started? If you want to buy or sell cryptocurrencies, opening an account with a cryptocurrency exchange is a great way to start. 

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Veterans, active service military members, and military families often have different needs than the average internet customer. Some need the flexibility to move at short notice, some need fast connections for video chat, and others just need something that fits around their budget.

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Limited in availability, but lightening fast speeds. EXPERIENCE THE POWER OF FIBER OPTICS!

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Blazing-fast speeds, service under $50, and no data caps.

Frontier has some great advantages. There are no data caps, you can get DSL service with no contract, and Frontier offers a two-year price-lock guarantee. Frontier is best known for their DSL, but now has great Fiber Internet options, TV, Phone, and can be bundled with Dish TV (satellite).

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The Cox Bundle Offers Deals for Cable, Internet and Telephone

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We’ve compiled a list of the top Internet Phone Service via VOIP or telco companies for you to choose from. Phone services displayed below are for home and business service. VOIP Services have many advantages. Thanks to VoIP, nowadays, telecommunication is easier and more flexible than ever before. It’s not only easy to use, but also very cheap.

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When satellite television first hit the market in the 1990s, home dishes were huge and expensive metal units and only the most die-hard TV fans would go through all the hassle and expense of putting in their own dish. Now advanced technology and services have made satellite TV easy to install and use. Satellite TV is now proving to be the biggest television breakthrough since Cable. (more…)

We reckon all that weekend sun must have gone to Virgin Media’s head. It has decided to launch two simultaneous perks with its super fast broadband deals to try and bring in new customers. 

Firstly, its doubled the speed of all its VIVID 50 and 100 broadband and TV plans. So that means average speeds of 108Mb where you would have previously got 54Mb, and a staggering 213Mb instead of 108Mb. We’re talking potential downloads of 26MB per second – as sizzling as the weekend’s weather.

But we promised you two perks. And the second comes in the form of a FREE Amazon Echo device. That’s the full blown Amazon Echo (worth £90) with the majority of Virgin’s premium broadband and TV deals, and the £50 Echo Dot for all of its other internet plans. And if you already have an Echo or simply aren’t bothered, you can choose bill credit to the equivalent value instead.

But don’t delay – Virgin’s flash sale ends at midnight this Wednesday.

Which Virgin broadband deal should I get?

The first thing we would suggest doing is either heading to our dedicated Virgin Media broadband page or straight to the bottom of this article. The former has a list of all the best deals you can choose from today, along with a bundle of other great buying advice to help you decide. While heading to the comparison chart at the bottom of this page has up-to-the-minute pricing and package information on all Virgin Media’s internet offerings.

Is Virgin fibre broadband available in my area?

Around 60% of the UK households are now able to receive superfast Virgin broadband. It’s easy to discover whether you’re one of the lucky 3-in-5 – head to the price comparison chart at the bottom of this page, enter your postcode where indicated and if deals show as available then you’re laughing.

If no results are returned, then head to our best broadband deals page instead and do exactly the same thing to see whether you can get superfast fibre broadband with another provider, such as BT Superfast.

Read more on Techradar.com.

Verizon Wireless offers some of the fastest, and most inclusive Internet Services available online.  However, with all the bells and whistles they still have one of the best low-cost solutions for DSL.  Starting at $19.99/month, Verizon has packages that are sure to fit your needs – from basic service to platinum top-shelf.   Here, we’re reviewing FIOS DSL, and DSL is still the greatest value for home Internet Service.

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